Rowers rewarded for winning effort

Siena McLean, left, Levi Carroll (WHS student), Jamie Harris and Blake Hogan after winning their Under 20 and Under 17 categories at the Billy Webb Challenge.

Four promising young rowers who tested their mettle against current world and Olympic champions on the Whanganui River on Sunday have received $100 cash prizes from the Whanganui Mitre 10 MEGA Future Champions Trust.

Racing in the Billy Webb Challenge against the likes of Mahe Drysdale, John Storey and Chris Harris, the four youth rowers were the winners of their C-class age groups.

WHS student Levi Carroll (Men's U20) finished the 5.7km race in 24m 17s, while Jamie Harris (Women's U20) completed it in 27m 15s.

Of the Under 17 rowers, Blake Hogan (Men's) crossed the line in 25m 11s, and Siena McLean (Women's) was done in 29m 44s.

Trustee and naming sponsor Hayden Gibson said the trust was proud to support high achieving youth.

"We see the Billy Webb event with double Olympic champion Mahe Drysdale involved as a really inspiring opportunity to promote the goals of the trust and support some upcoming young rowers."

Next funding round for the trust closes on March 31.

Visit www.futurechampionstrust.org or contact chairwoman Philippa Baker-Hogan on 027 272 7953.

By Staff Reporter
Wanganui Chronicle 1/12/17